Conclusion
Through the implementation of a four-step, evidence-based process of
achieving and checking adequate haemostasis, this project has
successfully reduced the overall incidence of post-operative haemorrhage
in our paediatric tonsillectomy cases. Furthermore, our change in
haemostasis practice has suggested a second benefit of reducing the
number of post-operative bleeds which require a return to theatre for
further surgical exploration and intervention. However, despite these
suggested improvements in patient outcomes, further audits should be
conducted to incorporate a larger patient cohort with extension to other
regional centres for comparison following incorporation of our proposed
change in practice for intra-operative haemostasis checks.